Maternity rights

All pregnant women are entitled to:

• Paid time off for antenatal appointments and antenatal classes.

• Health and safety protection. Your employer must carry out a risk assessment and, if necessary alter your working conditions or offer you an alternative job. If this is not possible your employer must suspend you on full pay for as long as is necessary to avoid the risks.

• The right not to be dismissed because of the pregnancy. If you are dismissed while you are pregnant or during your maternity leave, your employer must give you a written statement of the reasons. If you are dismissed or treated unfairly and you believe the reason is connected with your pregnancy, get advice from your trade union or Citizen's Advice Bureau.

Dealing with Colleagues

It's common for pregnant women to feel that they have something to prove. Often they'll work longer hours just to show that they're still as committed to the job. Don't feel tempted to over-compensate. There's no need and you might end up wearing yourself out.

Sometimes colleagues can be resentful if you're skipping off at lunch time to attend an antenatal class, or taking extended maternity leave. Don't let it get to you. You have the right to look after yourself and your baby. If they can't deal with it, that's their business.

If you're worried about appearing unprofessional at work, resist the urge to talk about your pregnancy to the post room staff and try not to flash your scan photos round at board meetings.